According to auto drivers' associations, the unavailability of LPG refills at fuel bunks has disrupted livelihoods, forcing many drivers to cut down trips or remain off the roads.

Mahadevaswamy, a representative of the Mysuru City Auto Owners and Drivers Association, stated that over 50% of autos in the city run on LPG and are currently facing acute fuel shortages.

He added that around 20% of autos had shifted to compressed natural gas (CNG) in recent years as a cost-effective alternative. However, these drivers are now grappling with a sudden price hike, with CNG rates rising from ₹15 to ₹20 per unit within a week.

Compounding the issue, at least two CNG filling stations in the city have reportedly displayed 'no stock' boards in recent days, raising concerns about continued availability.

Around 25% of autos in Mysuru continue to run on petrol and are not immediately affected by the LPG shortage. However, drivers say this segment too may face difficulties if the crisis persists.

Only a small fraction—just over 2%—of autos in the city are electric vehicles (EVs), and these remain unaffected by the ongoing fuel disruptions.

C N Srinivasa, another association member, explained that autos converted to LPG cannot efficiently switch back to petrol. 'Petrol in such vehicles is mainly used for ignition or emergencies. Once an auto runs on LPG, its efficiency on petrol drops significantly, making it an unviable alternative,' he said.

Auto drivers are also facing financial strain due to rising fuel costs and stagnant fares. Despite increased operational expenses, drivers are unable to pass on the burden to passengers.

'Passengers are unwilling to pay extra, and the government has not revised fares,' Srinivasa said. He added that app-based ride services are also unable to increase fares without official approval.

The combination of fuel shortage, rising CNG prices, and fixed fares has put drivers in a difficult position, with many reporting reduced earnings.

Drivers fear that the situation may worsen in the coming days if fuel supply issues are not resolved. The dependence on LPG and limited availability of viable alternatives have made the sector particularly vulnerable to global disruptions.

Associations have urged authorities to intervene and ensure steady fuel supply, while also considering fare revisions to support drivers during the crisis.

The LPG shortage has exposed the challenges faced by Mysuru's auto rickshaw sector, highlighting the need for diversified fuel options and policy support. As the crisis continues, timely intervention by the government will be crucial to safeguard the livelihoods of thousands of drivers and maintain urban transport services.